How is Asia driving growth in private jet charters? Covid-19 health concerns will slow the return of commercial airlines despite vaccine rollouts, says VistaJet’s Thomas Flohr – interview
- VistaJet uses a fixed-rate subscription model and flies a fleet including the Bombardier Global 7500
- In 2019, Vista Global acquired JetSmarter, meaning their XO app now offers instant booking across a fleet of over 2,100 aircraft
In the latest instalment in our On Work / On Play series with luxury CEOs, we sat down with Thomas Flohr, founder and chairman of charter company VistaJet. He tells STYLE how private jet services have taken off during the pandemic and how Asia is driving much of the growth.
What distinguishes the company’s business model from that of other charter companies?
VistaJet is pioneering innovative solutions in business aviation by offering a simple subscription membership at a fixed rate. Customers have access to an entire fleet while paying only for the hours they fly, free of the responsibilities and asset risks linked to aircraft ownership.
VistaJet’s signature Program offers customers a bespoke subscription of flight hours on mid- and long-range jets, to fly them anytime, anywhere. Our commitment to guarantee 24/7 availability has always been a core differentiator – and throughout the pandemic it clearly drove customers’ preferences.
How has the pandemic changed the private jet market?
We are seeing a growing trend of individuals and corporations moving away from aircraft ownership.
VistaJet also launched its new Dynamic Corporate Membership in October 2020, offering a full suite of flexible travel solutions and streamlined logistics for businesses around the world, with minimum commitment.